Introduction
Furnishing a home in paradise sounds like a dream—until you realize how expensive it can get. With Hawaii’s remote location and high shipping costs, buying furniture locally or having it shipped from the mainland often leads to sticker shock. But don’t worry! If you’re looking for affordable furniture in Hawaii, you’ve come to the right place.
Whether you’re a new homeowner, a military family relocating to Oahu, Maui, Big Island, or Kauai, or a longtime local looking to refresh your home, there are budget-friendly ways to furnish your space without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll explore where to find deals, how to shop smart, and tips for creating a beautiful island home on a budget.
Why Furniture in Hawaii Can Be Expensive
Shipping & Logistics Costs
One of the biggest reasons furniture in Hawaii comes with a hefty price tag is the cost of getting it here. Most products are shipped by sea or air, both of which are expensive and time-consuming. Shipping charges often add hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars to the final price tag of larger pieces like sofas, beds, and dining sets.
Limited Retail Options
Hawaii has fewer major furniture retailers compared to the mainland U.S. While there are some big names like Costco and HomeWorld, competition is less fierce. As a result, prices are often higher, and there are fewer choices in styles and materials.
Island Lifestyle Considerations
Life in Hawaii is different, and so are furniture needs. Many homes are open-air, exposed to humidity, salty air, and strong sun. This means that durable, weather-resistant materials are a must—and they often come at a premium.
Smart Strategies for Affordable Furniture in Hawaii
1. Start with Essentials First
When furnishing a new home, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and want to buy everything at once. Instead, focus on the essentials: a bed to sleep on, a table to eat at, and a couch to relax on. Buy the must-haves first, then add other pieces over time as your budget allows.
2. Embrace the Minimalist Island Lifestyle
Living in Hawaii often means embracing a simpler, more laid-back lifestyle. Less furniture can mean more open space, better airflow, and less clutter. Focus on multi-functional pieces that serve more than one purpose, like a daybed that doubles as a couch or a storage ottoman.
Best Places to Find Affordable Furniture in Hawaii
1. Second-Hand Stores & Thrift Shops
Hawaii has a thriving second-hand furniture market. Many residents move on and off the islands frequently, resulting in a steady supply of gently used furniture at bargain prices. Some of the best places to look include:
- Salvation Army Family Stores: Locations on Oahu, Big Island, Maui, and Kauai.
- Goodwill Hawaii: Regular stock rotations and sales events.
- Habitat for Humanity ReStores: Find everything from beds to appliances, often donated by major retailers.
Tips:
- Shop early in the day for the best finds.
- Visit on discount days (many offer senior or military discounts).
- Inspect pieces carefully for damage or wear.
2. Facebook Marketplace & Craigslist Hawaii
These platforms are gold mines for affordable furniture in Hawaii. Many military families host PCS (Permanent Change of Station) sales where you can find high-quality items at deep discounts.
Tips:
- Search by island: Oahu, Maui, Big Island, or Kauai.
- Look for “moving sale” listings—they often offer bulk deals.
- Always inspect items in person and meet in safe, public locations when possible.
3. Yard Sales and Community Markets
Weekend garage sales and community flea markets are great for scoring deals on furniture.
- Islander Ohana Group Sales: A great place for insider deals and community support.
- Military Base Sales: Check bulletin boards on bases for moving sales and furniture listings.
Pro Tip: Bring cash and be ready to negotiate politely. Most sellers are happy to make a deal, especially at the end of the day.
Budget-Friendly Furniture Stores in Hawaii
1. Costco Hawaii
Costco offers excellent deals on furniture and often includes free delivery, which is a huge bonus in Hawaii. Their selection includes:
- Beds and mattresses
- Sofas and sectionals
- Dining room sets
When to shop: Look for seasonal restocks and clearance events for the best prices.
2. HomeWorld Furniture
With locations on Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island, HomeWorld offers a range of affordable options. Financing plans are available for those who want to furnish now and pay later.
3. Discount Furniture Stores
- SlumberWorld Hawaii: Affordable bedroom sets and mattresses.
- C.S. Wo & Sons Clearance Center: Great deals on floor models and clearance items.
- Honolulu Furniture Company: Sustainable and locally-made options for eco-conscious buyers.
Online Furniture Shopping Tips for Hawaii
1. Amazon & Wayfair
Both Amazon and Wayfair have expanded their delivery options to Hawaii. Look for items that offer free shipping or reasonable shipping fees. Ideal purchases include:
- Small furniture items like end tables and nightstands
- Outdoor furniture and decor
- Assembly-required pieces (flat-pack furniture is easier and cheaper to ship)
2. Overstock & IKEA (via Freight Forwarders)
Overstock frequently offers discounts and ships many products to Hawaii. For IKEA, which doesn’t ship directly, you can use freight forwarders like Ship to Hawaii or MDX Hawaii.
How it works:
- Purchase your items on the mainland.
- Ship them to the freight forwarder’s address.
- They handle the ocean freight and delivery to your Hawaii home.
Tips:
- Always get a full quote, including customs fees and delivery.
- Compare rates from multiple freight forwarders to get the best deal.
3. Local Online Retailers
Some Hawaii-based retailers offer online catalogs with local delivery, including:
- Target Hawaii: Order online for delivery or in-store pickup.
- City Mill: Locally-owned home improvement store offering furniture and decor.
DIY & Upcycling Furniture in Hawaii
1. Thrifted Finds Makeovers
Revamp old furniture with a little elbow grease. Sanding, painting, and new hardware can breathe new life into second-hand pieces. Popular choices include:
- Repainting wooden dressers and nightstands
- Reupholstering dining chairs
2. Pallet Projects
simple wooden pallets benches and tables
Pallets are widely available and often free from local stores and warehouses. With basic tools, you can create:
- Bed frames
- Coffee tables
- Outdoor seating
3. Workshops & Community Classes
Many hardware stores and community centers offer free or low-cost furniture building classes. Look for:
- Home Depot Workshops
- Community College Adult Education Classes
- Local Maker Markets
Tips for Military Families (PCS Moves to Hawaii)
1. Shipping Furniture vs. Buying Local
Decide what’s worth shipping. Large, bulky items may cost more to ship than they’re worth. Consider bringing:
- Sentimental or high-quality pieces
- Lightweight, easy-to-ship furniture
Buy locally for:
- Beds and mattresses (better for Hawaii’s climate)
- Outdoor furniture (weather-resistant options)
2. Military-Specific Deals
- Navy Exchange (NEX): Offers military discounts on furniture and household goods.
- Commissary Bulletin Boards: Listings for PCS sales and free items.
3. Temporary Furnishings While You Wait
If your household goods shipment is delayed, consider furniture rental options like:
- CORT Furniture Rental
- Brook Furniture Rental
These services offer short-term packages suitable for temporary housing.
Furnishing for Vacation Rentals & Investment Properties
1. Budget-Friendly Furnishing Packages
Several Hawaii-based companies offer turnkey furnishing solutions for vacation rentals, including:
- Castle & Cooke
- Elite Pacific Properties
Packages often include:
- Living and dining room furniture
- Bedroom sets
- Kitchen essentials
2. Durable & Easy-to-Maintain Furniture Choices
When furnishing a rental, opt for materials suited for Hawaii’s tropical climate:
- Resin wicker
- Teak or bamboo furniture
- Microfiber or leather for easy cleaning
Environmental & Sustainable Furniture Options
1. Buy Local, Support Local
Support Hawaii’s local artisans and reduce your carbon footprint. Look for:
2. Eco-Friendly Materials
Choose sustainable materials such as:
- Bamboo
- Reclaimed wood
- Rattan and sea grass
Conclusion
Furnishing your home in Hawaii doesn’t have to drain your savings. With smart shopping, resourcefulness, and an island-style mindset, you can create a beautiful, comfortable living space on any budget.
By exploring second-hand stores, leveraging online options, and embracing DIY projects, you can find affordable furniture in Hawaii that fits your needs and lifestyle.
FAQs
- Where can I find affordable furniture in Honolulu?
- Check out HomeWorld, Costco, and Craigslist for deals.
- Is it cheaper to ship furniture or buy in Hawaii?
- Generally, it’s cheaper to buy locally unless shipping small, high-value items.
- Are there furniture rental options for new Hawaii residents?
- Yes! CORT and Brook offer temporary furniture rental packages.
- What’s the best second-hand store for furniture on Maui?
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore and Goodwill are excellent options.
- How can I get free furniture in Hawaii?
- Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist “free” listings, and military PCS giveaways are great places to start.
What do you think?